Top 10 Stage Hand Certifications

Certifications are important for stage hands in the job market because they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and experience. By having certifications, stage hands can prove to employers that they have the necessary skills and qualifications to do their job well. Certifications also help stage hands stand out from other applicants who may not have as much experience or training. Additionally, certifications can be seen as a form of recognition, showing that a stage hand is knowledgeable and reliable enough to be certified in a certain area. This recognition can help stage hands get better paying jobs and more opportunities in the industry.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Stage Hands and explain how they can help further a stage hand's career.

What are Stage Hand Certifications?

Stage hand certification is a certification program designed to provide aspiring stage hands with the knowledge and skills necessary for working safely in the theater, film, television, and live event industries. The certification is offered by a number of organizations and consists of a series of courses designed to teach stage hands about rigging, lighting, sound engineering, and other aspects of stage craft. It also covers topics such as safety regulations and occupational hazards.

Having stage hand certification can help individuals secure employment in the industry, as employers often look favorably upon applicants who have completed the coursework. Additionally, having the certification demonstrates a commitment to safety on set; it shows that an individual has taken steps to ensure they can work safely and responsibly while on set or backstage. As such, having this type of certification can be invaluable when looking for employment in the stagecraft industry.

Pro Tip: Invest in stage hand certification to demonstrate your knowledge and skills. Certification programs typically require a combination of experience and knowledge, which can help you stand out from the competition and open up more job opportunities. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire certified stage hands due to their increased level of expertise.

Related: What does a Stage Hand do?

Top 10 Stage Hand Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Stage Hands today.

1. OSHA 10-Hour Safety Certification

OSHA 10-Hour Safety Certification is a program developed by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to provide workers with safety training. The program consists of two 10-hour courses, one focusing on general industry safety and the other focusing on construction safety. The courses cover topics such as hazard recognition, accident prevention, personal protective equipment, fire safety, and emergency response.

The OSHA 10-Hour course typically takes two days to complete. It can be taken in person or online through an approved provider. Depending on the provider, the cost for the course can range from $50-$200. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a wallet card from OSHA verifying their certification.

The OSHA 10-Hour Safety Certification is not required by law but it is highly recommended for anyone working in an industry where there is potential for workplace hazards or accidents. The certification provides workers with valuable knowledge that can help them stay safe and prevent injuries in the workplace.

2. First Aid and CPR Certification

First Aid and CPR Certification is a certification that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills to provide emergency medical care in a variety of settings. The certification is designed to help individuals recognize and respond to life-threatening emergencies, such as cardiac arrest, choking, and shock.

It typically takes about 8 hours to complete the First Aid and CPR Certification course. During this time, participants learn how to assess an emergency situation, how to administer first aid techniques such as CPR and AED use, how to handle bleeding and fractures, and how to recognize signs of stroke or heart attack.

To get First Aid and CPR Certification, you must take a course provided by an approved provider. These courses are offered at many community colleges, hospitals, fire departments, and other organizations. You can also find online courses that offer the same certification.

The cost of First Aid and CPR Certification varies depending on where you take the course. Most providers charge between $50-$100 for the class fee alone. Additional costs may include materials or equipment fees if applicable.

3. Rigging and Hoisting Certification

Rigging and Hoisting Certification is a certification program that is designed to ensure the safety of personnel and equipment when lifting, moving, and suspending heavy loads. The certification program consists of both classroom instruction and hands-on practical training. It typically takes between 3-4 days to complete the course.

In order to get certified, you must first attend a rigging and hoisting class from an accredited provider. The cost of such classes can vary from $500-$1000 depending on the length of the course. After completing the course, you will then need to pass a written exam in order to receive your certification.

Once you have obtained your Rigging and Hoisting Certification, it will be valid for three years before needing to be renewed. Renewal fees are typically around $100-$200 depending on the provider.

4. Electrical Safety Training

Electrical safety training is a type of training that teaches people how to work safely and correctly with electrical equipment. This type of training is important for anyone who works with or around electricity, as it can help prevent serious injuries and even death.

The length of time it takes to complete electrical safety training depends on the type of course you take. Some courses are designed to be completed in a single day, while others may require multiple days or weeks for completion. The cost of the course will also vary depending on the provider and the level of instruction required.

In order to get electrical safety training, you will need to find an accredited provider in your area. Many providers offer online courses that can be taken from home or at a local college or university. Additionally, some employers may provide their own in-house electrical safety training programs.

The cost of electrical safety training will vary depending on the provider and the level of instruction required. Generally speaking, basic courses can range from $50-$500, while more advanced courses can cost up to $1,000 or more.

5. Scaffolding Safety Certification

Scaffolding Safety Certification is a certification program that provides scaffold users with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely use and maintain scaffolding systems. It is designed to ensure that all personnel involved in the erection, use, alteration, maintenance or dismantling of scaffolds are properly trained and certified.

The certification program consists of a two-day classroom training course followed by an online assessment. The course covers topics such as safety regulations, types of scaffolds, inspection requirements and safe work practices. Upon successful completion of the course and assessment, participants will receive a certificate from the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) confirming their Scaffolding Safety Certification.

The two-day training course typically takes place over two consecutive days at an approved training facility or onsite at a job site. The cost for the course varies depending on the location and provider but generally ranges from $400-$600 per person.

To get certified, you must attend an approved training program and pass the online assessment. You can find approved providers by searching for “scaffolding safety certification” on Google or other search engines. Once you have found an approved provider, you can register for their training course and complete the online assessment to receive your certificate.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on the provider but generally ranges from $400-$600 per person. This fee typically includes both the classroom training and online assessment fees.

6. Aerial Lift Operation Certification

Aerial Lift Operation Certification is a certification program that is designed to ensure the safe operation of aerial lifts. The certification program consists of both classroom and hands-on training and covers topics such as basic lift operations, safety protocols, and maintenance procedures.

The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the type of certification being sought. Generally, most certifications can be completed in one day or less. However, some certifications may require additional classroom hours or hands-on training in order to be fully certified.

In order to get an Aerial Lift Operation Certification, individuals must first complete an approved aerial lift operation course. After completing the course, individuals must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification. Many employers will also require applicants to pass a practical test before they are considered for employment.

The cost of Aerial Lift Operation Certification varies depending on the type of certification being sought and the provider offering the course. Generally speaking, courses range from $100-$500 USD depending on the level of instruction provided and length of the course.

7. Fire Prevention and Protection Training

Fire Prevention and Protection Training is a specialized type of training that teaches individuals how to prevent and protect against fires in the workplace. It covers topics such as fire safety regulations, fire prevention techniques, fire extinguisher use, evacuation procedures, and other related topics. The training typically takes between 8-16 hours to complete depending on the type of course taken.

To get Fire Prevention and Protection Training, individuals can contact their local fire department or state fire marshal’s office for more information on courses available in their area. Additionally, many employers offer this type of training as part of their safety program.

The cost of Fire Prevention and Protection Training varies depending on the provider, but generally ranges from $50-$200 per person for a one-day course.

8. Fall Protection Training

Fall Protection Training is a type of safety training that teaches workers how to recognize, assess, and control fall hazards in the workplace. This training is designed to help reduce the risk of serious injury or death due to falls from heights. It typically covers topics such as fall protection systems, hazard identification, safe work practices, and emergency response plans.

The length of Fall Protection Training varies depending on the provider and the type of training being offered. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from a few hours to several days to complete the training. Some providers offer online courses that can be completed in as little as one hour.

You can get Fall Protection Training from a variety of sources including employers, safety consultants, trade associations, educational institutions, and government agencies. The cost of this training will vary depending on the provider and the type of course being taken. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $50-$500 per person for classroom-based courses or $20-$100 for online courses.

It is important to note that some states may require employers to provide Fall Protection Training for their employees in order to comply with state regulations. Additionally, some employers may require their employees to receive this type of training before they are allowed to work at heights or use certain types of equipment.

9. Hazard Communication Training

Hazard Communication Training is a type of safety training that teaches workers how to identify and respond to hazardous materials in their work environment. The purpose of the training is to ensure that employees are aware of the potential risks associated with hazardous materials and how to properly handle them. It also provides information on labeling, material safety data sheets, and other important topics related to working with hazardous materials.

The length of Hazard Communication Training depends on the complexity of the material being presented and can range from a few hours to several days. Generally, it includes lectures, demonstrations, group activities, and hands-on practice.

Employers are responsible for providing Hazard Communication Training for their employees. They can either provide it themselves or hire an outside consultant or trainer to do so. The cost will depend on the type of training being provided as well as the number of employees being trained.

10. Lockout/Tagout Procedures Training

Lockout/Tagout Procedures Training is a type of safety training that teaches employees how to safely and properly lockout or tag out machinery, equipment, and other hazardous energy sources. The purpose of the training is to prevent accidental start-up or release of stored energy during servicing or maintenance activities.

The length of Lockout/Tagout Procedures Training will vary depending on the complexity and scope of the organization’s lockout/tagout program. Generally, it takes between two and four hours to complete the training.

To get Lockout/Tagout Procedures Training, employers should contact an OSHA-authorized trainer who can provide instruction on their specific program. Employers must also ensure that their workers are trained in the proper use of locks, tags, and other devices used in their lockout/tagout program.

The cost of Lockout/Tagout Procedures Training will depend on the size of the organization and the complexity of its lockout/tagout program. Generally, it costs between $100 and $200 per person for a basic course.

Do You Really Need a Stage Hand Certificate?

The answer to this question depends largely on the specific job for which you are applying. A stage hand certificate may be required for certain positions in the theatre industry, such as a technical director or lighting designer. In these cases, employers will typically require proof of certification from an accredited program before they consider your application.

Even if the position doesn't specifically require a stage hand certificate, having one can still be an asset. A certificate demonstrates that you have taken steps to gain knowledge and experience in the field of theatre arts, and it shows potential employers that you are committed to your craft. Employers may also appreciate that you have taken the initiative to learn what is necessary to do your job well.

In addition, having a stage hand certificate can open up more opportunities for advancement in your career. It could also give you access to higher paying positions or better work conditions than those without a certificate.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a stage hand certificate depends on what kind of job you're applying for and how much experience and education you already have in this field. If the position requires certification, then it is important to obtain one so that you can make yourself competitive with other candidates who may have similar qualifications but lack a certificate. Otherwise, having one may still be beneficial depending on what kind of position you are hoping to secure.

Related: Stage Hand Resume Examples

FAQs About Stage Hand Certifications

1. What is a stage hand certification?

Answer: A stage hand certification is a certificate that demonstrates an individual's knowledge and experience in the field of stage production, such as lighting, sound, rigging, and scenic construction.

2. How do I obtain a stage hand certification?

Answer: You can obtain a stage hand certification by completing an accredited course or program at a college or technical school. Some employers may also offer on-the-job training programs to become certified as a stagehand.

3. What are the benefits of having a stage hand certification?

Answer: Having a stage hand certification can help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the entertainment industry. It also shows potential employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle the job effectively and safely.

4. What types of jobs can I get with a stage hand certification?

Answer: With a stage hand certification, you can find work as a production assistant, lighting technician, sound engineer, rigger, scenic carpenter, or other related positions within the entertainment industry.

5. Is there any additional training required after getting my stage hand certification?

Answer: Depending on your specific job duties and responsibilities, some employers may require additional safety training courses or certifications in order to work on their productions.